Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Apollo Quiboloy —Noy Morcoso/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Detained televangelist Apollo Quiboloy has been hospitalized since last week for an “irregular heartbeat,” which may be considered “life-threatening.”
Philippine National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said at a press briefing on Monday that the self-appointed “Son of God” and founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) sect was taken to the Philippine Heart Center (PHC) in Quezon City on Nov. 8.
A day before, he complained of chest discomfort, prompting guards at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame to bring him to the PNP General Hospital, where he underwent a medical checkup. Doctors, however, recommended that he undergo further examination.
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“The medical examination conducted by the [PNP] health service revealed that he has an irregular heartbeat, which may be considered as life-threatening,” Fajardo told reporters.
Extension granted
Quiboloy was transferred to the PHC at noon on Friday upon the order of a Pasig City court, where he is facing a nonbailable qualified trafficking charge. He also has a pending case in a Quezon City court for child abuse, discrimination, and exploitation.
He was originally scheduled to be returned to Camp Crame on Monday but the court granted a request from his camp to extend his medical furlough until Nov. 16 so that he could complete the recommended medical tests.
According to Fajardo, the 74-year-old KJC leader suffers from atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response, characterized by rapid and irregular heartbeat, causing symptoms such as palpitations and dizziness.
She said that Quiboloy was in a regular hospital room that was guarded by the PNP. The Pasig court had earlier denied his request for hospital or house arrest.
Multiple charges
In September, Quiboloy surrendered to authorities after a 16-day police search of the KJC’s sprawling compound in Davao City. Arrested with him were his fellow accused Ingrid Canada, Cresente Canada, Jackielyn Roy, and Sylvia Cemañes.
He is also wanted in the United States, where he faces charges of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion, sex trafficking of children, conspiracy, and bulk cash smuggling. A warrant for his arrest was issued by a US court on Nov. 10, 2021.
Last month, his lawyers filed his certificate for candidacy for senator in next year’s midterm elections.